boutiques

Southgate Village Shops will host its monthly sip and stroll on Thursday from 5-8 p.m.

Several businesses in the strip mall at the northeast corner of U.S. 41 and Siesta Drive across the street from Westfield Southgate are keeping their doors open later than usual. Merchants will offer an array of drinks, light bites, samples and promotions.

The shopping center is home to Pop Craft Pops, Bark & Bath pet groomer, Baker & Wife restaurant, Spider Lily Finery boutique, Z-Edge Tattoo and Body Piercing, Tropical Shores Popcorn, Goodbyes Consignment of Sarasota as well as several other retailers and service shops. Organizers expect about 15 storefronts to participate.

The merchants launched their first sip and stroll late last year and have brought it back as a monthly event in season because of success and demand. Three other sip and strolls are planned for March 9, April 13 and May 11.